Mechanical engineering is one of the most impactful and versatile fields in the world. From robotics, to renewable energy, to biomedical devices, mechanical engineers create the solutions that we use every day. The field has many different career options available for graduates depending on what you want to do with your degree after graduation. Below are some ideas of how a mechanical engineering degree can help shape our world.
What can you do with a degree in mechanical engineering?
Mechanical engineering is the application of the principles of physics and materials science to design, analyze and manufacture mechanical systems. Mechanical engineers are responsible for the design, production and operation of machinery, tools and engines.
The field of mechanical engineering is broad, covering a wide array of disciplines that include thermal measurement, fluid mechanics, kinematics and dynamics as well as other areas. A person with a degree in mechanical engineering can focus their efforts on specific subfields depending on what they want to do with their education:
- Aerospace engineers design aircrafts or spacecrafts. They also assist in testing new materials used in aviation; working on rockets or space shuttles; landing gear design; propulsion systems; flight control systems (for example autopilot); navigation guidance systems (GPS) for airplanes/helicopters/jets etc.; developing new methods for manufacturing parts at high rates using less energy consumption (3D printing technology).
- Biomedical engineers apply medical knowledge towards improving human health through mechanical solutions like artificial heart valves or prosthetic limbs with electronic functions such as sensing pressure levels around joints when walking up stairs etc.
Create innovative solutions for manufacturers
With a degree in mechanical engineering, you can work to create innovative solutions for manufacturers. You might work on new products and processes that help companies improve their manufacturing capabilities. You could also get involved in designing the equipment used by factory workers or the machines that make parts for those products.
Design clean, efficient energy systems
In this position, you will be designing, building, and testing wind turbines. You may also be involved in the design and construction of solar panels. Additionally, you can work with other mechanical engineers to design nuclear power plants or geothermal power plants. If you’re working on a hydroelectric plant, it will require a lot of research into how much water flow is needed and where to find it.
Contribute to the future of robotics
The field of robotics is a cross-disciplinary one, meaning that mechanical engineers work closely with other engineers and scientists. There are many opportunities for collaborative research, which can lead to even more innovation than would occur if you were working alone.
For example, robotics has been applied to the pharmaceutical industry in order to automate drug discovery and testing processes. This allows researchers to quickly test thousands of compounds for their efficacy and toxicity without having to rely on human subjects.
Develop cutting-edge medical equipment and biomedical devices
As one of the most versatile and sought-after engineering degrees, mechanical engineering is a great choice for anyone interested in helping to improve the quality of life for people everywhere. The field is so broad that there are many different career paths to choose from once you’ve earned your degree.
But perhaps one of the most exciting areas of mechanical engineering is biomedical devices. These products range from prosthetic limbs and orthotic appliances (for those with physical disabilities) to advanced medical equipment like ventilators, dialysis machines, pacemakers and heart valves—and the list goes on!
Many modern medical devices use some sort of electromechanical device or microprocessor controller as part of their operation; therefore a thorough understanding of how these functions work will be an asset if you want your job title to include words like “develop” or “design.”
Expand your expertise with a graduate degree or professional certificate
A graduate degree in mechanical engineering is a great way to expand your knowledge and expertise. There are many different types of graduate degrees available, with topics ranging from design and operation of machinery to aerospace and marine engineering.
A master’s degree program will allow you to work on more complex problems than those found in an undergraduate curriculum, while also providing opportunities for research or teaching positions after graduation. In addition, some schools offer combined bachelor’s/master’s degrees that allow students to complete both degrees in six years instead of the usual four or five years for each program individually.
If you’re interested in specializing further within the field of mechanical engineering, there are also PhD programs available for exceptional candidates who wish to conduct cutting-edge research within their area of interest (e.g., nanotechnology or robotics).
Conclusion
Mechanical engineering is one of the most versatile degrees you can earn. It opens up a range of career opportunities in fields from automotive and aerospace to robotics, biomedical devices and more. If you’re interested in making your mark on the world with your work, this could be an excellent choice for you!
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